In addition, a simplified design with few moving
parts translates into less maintenance and longer running times. Thieme further
states that with no chemicals used in the process, combustion at a high
temperatures, and ceramic filters to remove particulate matter, the process
achieves results without compromising the environment.

Quick return on investment

In keeping the principles of Industry 4.0, the entire process is fully automated to increase productivity of the plant.

“With the development of the Macrotech gold recovery incinerator, new advancements have been made to automate the plant as much as possible with remote monitoring being possible,” adds Thieme.

“Given these developments, the PLC controls are introducing mining equipment to Industry 4.0.”

“What’s more, this incinerator is unique. Return on
investment can be as little as 18 months. With most of the raw materials and
equipment for manufacture being South Africa-based, the price of the plant is
favourable in US dollar terms.”

Africa has potential

In 2020, Saubatech will continue to maintain its momentum across the African continent.

Thieme states: “Africa as a whole has huge potential for the mining industry. As technology advances, more mines can be opened which means more incineration requirements to reduce illegal dumping of waste and with proper filtration we help our environment and save our future.”

He advises that in order for those companies in the mining sector to be successful in this new age of mining, they need to mine smarter.

“Today, it’s about working together with the local community and government. It is about reducing the carbon footprint, making sure the environment and the future is secured. Forward thinking is critical and proper incineration can assist in this,” he concludes.

The Saubatech–Macrotech story

The Safurnco-Macrotech
relationship goes back to the 1950s when Spencer Dowdle and Brian Thomson met
at university. They both worked for Steam & Mining before going their
separate ways to form Macrotech and Protectaire about 30 years ago.

Thomson reached an agreement with Dowdle that he would
design and manufacture the incinerators and Dowdle would market the product.
After the purchase of Safurnco in 1984, Dowdle’s partner Peter Thieme took over
the sales, marketing and aftersales service of the incinerators, cremators,
waste gas flares and sewage presses.

The relationship between the two companies has strengthened over the years, making the Macroburn, a world-leading technically advanced unit that conforms to European standards.

About 600 units have been shipped to companies and organisations in more than 32 countries including UNICEF in Zambia, Nigeria and Iran; WHO in Zambia; and the South African Reserve Bank.

In July 2003, Safurnco formed a new company to deal particularly with incinerators, called Saubatech. Peter Thieme and his son Andreas head this venture. Now in its 16th year, Saubatech has gone from strength to strength broadening the field of incineration through ongoing research and development of the Macroburn brand.

Enquiries for gold recovery incinerators and general mine incinerators have increased dramatically over the last few years, of which bode well for the continued success Saubatech.